More Valuable Than Gold

through the world’s first national park, the Yellowstone River — the longest free-flowing river in the lower 48 — winds north, past the century-old stone arch marking the border of Yellowstone National Park, and into a Montana valley called Paradise.

Elk herds roam along the riverbed, raptors swoop over trout streams and antelope spring across the valley, sharing the space with human residents. Grizzlies, mountain lions and wolves complete the portrait of nature as it once was — predator and prey striking a balance.

Here, near the braided river and enfolded by rugged, 10,000-foot peaks, Darcie Warden preps for one of her favorite meditations — in a place that is now considered under threat.

Balto bounds back and forth, back and forth, always ready. Ever-skeptical Ruby cocks her head as Darcie clicks into skis.

Darcie says it really feels like flying. To run, to pull, to move in perfect harmony is what these Alaskan husky siblings were born to do.

It’s connection to this place that’s a home for her heart, drinking in the wind, the trees, and the beckoning mountains.

they break for a drink and treats. It’s a welcome rest stop — Ruby’s energy is flagging. She’s averting her eyes and flopping into the fluffy snow at every pause.

Darcie is part of the effort that is seeking solutions — ones that recognize that the area’s natural values are a tremendous asset.

“I have this immense love for my dogs when I’m out with them on skis,” Darcie says. “It’s so meaningful for us, getting to jore in this very special place. It’s astounding — the Paradise Valley might not be part of Yellowstone National Park, but it has all the qualities of a national treasure.”

of the area, Darcie says, would be to ensure future generations and their canine companions can also experience the magic she feels there with Ruby and Balto — their own memories in Paradise.